A large law enforcement presence will be in downtown Tampa today as part of homeland security training.
- National Homeland Security Association conference in Tampa
- Mock rescue missions taking place in downtown Tampa Wednesday
- Hillsborough River closed between 11 am and 2 pm for training
The National Homeland Security Association is hosting its annual conference the next few days in downtown Tampa and local law enforcement is getting in on the training.
Tampa police, Hillsborough County deputies, Tampa Fire Rescue personnel and deputies with Hernando and Citrus counties will take part in mock rescue missions during the training.
Crews will perform missions on the river, using a helicopter as part of hostage rescue training on a cruise ship near the convention center. Onlookers likely will see officers rappelling from helicopters, armed training and will likely hear faux gunfire.
Tampa police have been practicing exercises already this week. On Wednesday, the Hillsborough River will be shut down to boat traffic between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Homeland Security officials say the training provides a direct bridge to connect and share best practices to keep America safe.
Officials said these practices take on added importance in the wake of recent attacks in Orlando and Istanbul.